Richard Paul Soles

Richard Paul Soles - Age 81, of Lapeer, passed away January 12, 2026.

A memorial service will be held at 12PM Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Sharp Funeral Homes- Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Road, Swartz Creek. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on Saturday from 10AM until the time of service.

Richard was born in Battle Creek, Michigan on June 22, 1944, to George and Laura (Mangar) Soles. After a long career with General Motors, Richard enjoyed a well-earned retirement as a proud UAW member. He found peace in the outdoors, whether he was fishing or identifying the birds that visited his yard. When not outside, he was often found playing Solitaire on his computer or cheering on his beloved Detroit Tigers and Lions. His favorite time was spent with his family and grandkids. Richard could always be counted on for his kindness, wit and humor, bringing smiles to the faces of everyone in his life.

His legacy lives on through his children Shelley (Loren) Bearup, Martin (Angela) Soles, and Holly (Abe) Ghabra; step-children Mike Bilsky, Ken (Sherry) Bilsky, and Theresa Bilsky; grandchildren Jana, Jacob, Amie, CJ, Travis, Jeremy, Justin, Brandon, Steven, Alaina, Nick, and Nate; sisters-in-law Dorothy Matejcek and Carolyn Soles; and many great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents; wife Sandra (Matejcek) Soles; brother Victor; and sister Katy.

In celebration of Richard’s lifelong loyalty to his teams, the family requests that attendees wear Detroit or Michigan sports gear, or smart casual attire to the service.

Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com